Grass Seed - Knowledgebase Question

I just moved into a new home and I want to start working on a great backyard. Currently there is only dirt in the backyard and I would like to plant grass seed. Which type of grass seed is best in region 9-a and do I blanket the ground with it or sprinkle it sparingly?

You'll want to plant a warm-season grass such as Bahiagrass, Bermuda, Carpetgrass,
Centipede, St. Augustine or Zoysiagrass. The latter two are installed by planting plugs or sprigs; the remainder are available in straight seed or seed mixtures. After preparing the site and raking it smooth, you can broadcast the seed by hand or use either a handheld broadcaster or a broadcaster on wheels (similar to a fertilizer applicator). Your decision will be based on how much lawn area you'll be seeding. You won't need to blanket the ground, but you will need to broadcast enough seed to adequately cover the area. The package of grass seed you purchase will list the number of pounds you will need for the area you plan to plant so be sure to measure the area before you go shopping.